No fewer than 15 suspected oil thieves have been arrested around the Ibeju Lekki axis of Lagos State.
They were arrested by troops of the Nigerian Army, according to an operational report made available to newsmen on Friday.
The report revealed that the suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Friday by troops of Headquarters 9 Brigade in conjunction with 65 Battalion, following credible intelligence.
It clarified that the suspects were intercepted while attempting to illegally tap into a crude oil discharge point from a vessel supplying crude to the Dangote Refinery.
“The vessel was discharging crude oil to the refinery for the production of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) when the suspects were caught trying to connect pipes to the discharge point,” it said.
The report said the operation led to the arrest of 15 suspects and recovery of several items used in the illegal activity.
According to the report, recovered items include a Mack tanker truck, a Lexus RX 350 sport utility vehicle, and a Ford Ranger pick-up truck.
Other items include a pumping machine, a 40HP Yamaha speedboat engine, and multiple hoses.
“The suspects and exhibits are currently in the custody of 65 Battalion, while further investigations are ongoing.
“The successful operation underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to protect critical national infrastructure and curb crude oil theft across the country,” it said.
